Keeping your swimming pool sparkling clean doesn’t have to mean hours of manual vacuuming every week. An automatic pool cleaner can handle the heavy lifting, but with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

Whether you have a small above-ground pool, a large in-ground, or deal with heavy leaves and debris, this guide breaks down which pool cleaner is right for you based on your pool type, budget, and lifestyle.

In this post, we’ll compare the three main types (robotic, suction-side, and pressure-side pool cleaners) highlight their pros and cons, and help you decide the best fit.

The 3 Main Types of Automatic Pool Cleaners

There are three primary categories of automatic pool cleaners. Each works differently and excels in specific scenarios:

1.  Robotic Pool Cleaners
Independent units with their own motors and filters that plug into a standard outlet (or run cordless). They use smart navigation, scrubbing brushes, and powerful suction to clean floors, walls, and sometimes the waterline.

2.  Suction-Side Pool Cleaners
Connect to your pool’s skimmer or dedicated suction line. They rely on your existing pool pump and filter system to move around and collect debris.

3.  Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners
Hook up to a return jet (often requiring a booster pump). They use water pressure to propel themselves and direct debris into a dedicated filter bag.

Quick Comparison: Robotic vs Suction vs Pressure Pool Cleaners

Here’s a side-by-side look at how they stack up:

•  Cleaning Performance: Robotic cleaners offer the most thorough cleaning, including fine dirt, algae, and wall scrubbing. Suction-side models handle light debris (sand, dust) well but may miss spots. Pressure-side cleaners excel at larger debris like leaves and twigs. 

•  Ease of Use & Setup: Robots win with simple plug-and-play, and there are cordless models available now, too. Suction-side are easy to install but hoses can tangle. Pressure-side require more setup, including a stronger pump for best results. 

•  Energy Efficiency & Pool Equipment Impact: Robots use very little electricity (5 cents per hour) and don’t burden your pool’s pump or filter. Suction and pressure types increase wear on your filtration system and raise energy costs.

•  Upfront Cost: Suction-side: Lowest in price. Pressure-side: Mid-range in price. Robotic: Highest price, but many owners report long-term savings.  There are also manufacturer’s rebates available during specific sales, so check with your closest Pool Mart to see what promotions are underway.  

•  Maintenance: Robots have self-contained filters you empty yourself. Suction and pressure models can clog your main filter faster.

•  Best For: Robots suit most modern pools wanting convenience. Suction for budget-conscious owners with lighter debris. Pressure for heavy leaf loads or specific in-ground setups.

How to Choose the Right Pool Cleaner for Your Pool

Ask yourself these key questions to narrow it down:

1. What type and size is your pool?

•  Above-ground or small in-ground (under 15,000 gallons): Suction-side or compact robotic models work well.

•  Large or irregularly shaped in-ground pools: Robotic cleaners with advanced mapping or pressure-side cleaners with strong propulsion perform better.

•  Vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete? Most cleaners are compatible, but check for gentle brushes on vinyl liners. 

2. What kind of debris do you deal with?

•  Fine dirt, sand, or algae: Robotic or suction-side.

•  Heavy leaves, acorns, or twigs: Pressure-side (with its own bag) or a high-end robotic with strong suction and large debris handling.

3. What’s your budget and how much maintenance do you want?

•  Tight budget and okay with occasional hose adjustments: Go suction or pressure.

•  Willing to invest for ‘set it and forget it’ convenience: Robotic is usually worth it long-term due to efficiency and reduced pump wear.

4. Do you want smart features?

Many robotic models offer app control, scheduled cleaning, and AI navigation for complete coverage without missing spots.

Pros and Cons of Each Type

Robotic Pool Cleaners

Pros: Superior cleaning (floors and walls), energy efficient, no wear on pool equipment, easy to use, often climb walls, programmable.

Cons: Higher upfront cost, may need manual emptying of the filter basket.

Best for: Busy homeowners who want the cleanest pool with minimal effort. 

Suction-Side Pool Cleaners

Pros: Affordable, simple installation, reliable for daily light cleaning.

Cons: Limited to floor cleaning in many cases, can tangle or get stuck, adds load to your pump and filter.

Best for: Budget buyers with mostly fine debris and standard pool shapes.

Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners

Pros: Excellent at large debris, independent filter bag (protects main system somewhat), good wall climbing on many models.

Cons: Requires booster pump setup, higher energy use, more maintenance on hoses/bags.

Best for: Pools with lots of trees nearby or owners who prefer traditional pressure-driven cleaning. 

Final Tips for Buying the Right Pool Cleaner

•  Measure your pool and note its shape, depth, and surface type.

•  For maximum efficiency, pair any cleaner with regular skimming and chemical balance. 

•  Visit your closest Pool Mart location so you can consult with us and check out all of our available models, sale specials and rebates.  

Still not sure which pool cleaner is right for you? Start with your biggest pain point (time, budget, or debris) and work from there. Robotic cleaners are increasingly the top choice for most pool owners because they deliver better results with far less hassle and lower long-term costs.